Is China replacing the USA as a superpower? An Expert Interview.

In recent decades, China has massively expanded its influence on the global stage—with the goal of reshaping the international order. But what exactly lies behind this claim, and what consequences does it have for Europe, the global power USA, and global power distribution? Kontrast spoke with sinologist Doris Vogl, who analyzes different facets of this […]

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🌍 African Continental Brief: Security, Politics, Business and Human Rights

Geopolitics & Policy South Africa: Malema Found Guilty of Hate SpeechA South African equality court has ruled that Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters, committed hate speech in 2022. The court, which adjudicates discrimination cases, found his remarks violated national laws on incitement. Senegal: Landmark Whistleblower Protection Law PassedSenegal’s parliament has approved legislation […]

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What is developmental language disorder, and how do we diagnose it?

An increasing amount of attention is being paid to dyslexia and autism. These neurodevelopmental disorders affect a large number of children, to the point where they have become household names for many families, caregivers and educators. However, there is another disorder that is just as common – if not more so – but it remains […]

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Gaza death and destruction ‘without parallel in recent times’: Guterres

“Israel’s initial steps to militarily take over Gaza City signals a new and dangerous phase,” he told journalists in New York, warning against the devastating consequences. “Hundreds of thousands of civilians – already exhausted and traumatized – would be forced to flee yet again, plunging families into even deeper peril. This must stop.” ‘Endless catalogue of […]

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JPMorgan’s Planned Fintech Fees May Lead to Higher Costs for Consumers, Industry Leaders Warn

NEW YORK — JPMorgan Chase’s decision to introduce new fees for financial technology companies accessing customer bank data is raising concerns across the fintech sector, with several CEOs warning that the costs may ultimately be passed on to consumers. The fees, set to take effect within weeks, target data aggregators such as Plaid and Yodlee, […]

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Gold Prices Rise in August Following Rate Cut Expectations and Softer Dollar

Gold prices are poised to close August with a monthly gain, buoyed by growing expectations of a U.S. Federal Reserve interest rate cut in September and a weaker dollar. The rally reflects renewed investor interest in safe-haven assets as economic uncertainty and policy shifts continue to shape global markets. According to analysts at UBS and […]

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Fed Governor Lisa Cook Sues President Trump Over Attempted Dismissal Linked to Mortgage Allegations

WASHINGTON — Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook has filed a lawsuit against President Donald Trump, challenging what she calls an “unprecedented and illegal” attempt to remove her from office over unproven mortgage fraud allegations. The legal action, filed on August 28, comes days after Trump issued a letter stating his intent to dismiss Cook, citing […]

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Tensions Rise in Jakarta Following Death of Ride-Share Driver in Police Incident

JAKARTA — Public unrest has intensified in Indonesia’s capital after student groups called for protests at Jakarta’s police headquarters on Friday, following the death of a motorcycle ride-sharing driver struck by a police tactical vehicle. The incident occurred on Thursday evening near the Bendungan Hilir flats, where police were dispersing demonstrators. The victim, identified as […]

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Secretary Rubio’s Call with Foreign Minister Fidan 

Office of the Spokesperson Secretary Rubio’s Call with Foreign Minister Fidan  August 28, 2025 The below is attributable to Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott: Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke today with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan to discuss strengthening U.S.-Turkish bilateral relations and our cooperation as NATO Allies.  They also discussed their continued support for peace […]

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Fifth Earthquake in Six Days Strikes Johor, Malaysia Raising Seismic Concerns

SEGAMAT — A 3.4-magnitude earthquake struck Segamat, Johor at 4:24 a.m. on Friday, August 29, marking the fifth seismic event in the region within six days, according to the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia). The quake’s epicentre was located 22 kilometres northeast of Segamat at a depth of 10 kilometres. Tremors were felt across parts of […]

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